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Discussion Paper
1. Do you think that Texas’s political culture is traditionalistic-individualistic, as the textbook implies? Give examples of political events that support your opinion.
2. Do you think the guiding principles for the 1876 Constitution effectively address today’s political concerns? If so, how? If not, why not?
3. Does the federal government have too much or too little power over the states? What policy areas do you think the federal government should hand back to the states or take more control over and why?
4. Why are third-party candidates unsuccessful in Texas politics? Do you think that if Texas had proportional representation for the state legislature, the number of third-party candidates winning seats would increase? Why or why not?
5. Some states are, or are in the process of, enforcing strict voter ID laws. These are aimed at decreasing voter fraud; however, some have argued that stricter laws will make it much harder for certain groups, such as minorities and the poor, to vote. Do you think that stricter voter ID laws are necessary? Why or why not? How do you think they will impact voter turnout?
6. Do you think there should be clear legislation regulating and restricting the benefits that interest groups can provide to policy makers? Why? If so, what should the legislation include?
7. Should partisan redistricting be permitted? Why or why not?
8. The overwhelming message of this chapter is that the Texas governor is weak, and Texans want it that way. Yet, the governor of Texas has the power of the line-item veto, a power the president does not possess. Why would the people and legislature of Texas want the governor to have this particular power?
9. Do you think racial and ethnic representation on the bench matters? Why or why not? What about gender, age, or sexual orientation? Why does diversity matter or not matter for judges?
10. Some cities, such as Austin, have a city council elected in citywide elections. What are the advantages and disadvantages to having citywide elections rather than districts for city council?
11. What benefits do citizens receive from living in a low-tax, low-spending state? What potential consequences do they experience?
12. How should public education be financed? Is a property tax the best way to do it? What are the alternatives?
13. How should Texas deal with increasing rates of incarceration?
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